The Crabapple Fire, which ignited on March 15 in Gillespie County near Fredericksburg, Texas, has been fully contained after scorching 9,858 acres. The wildfire prompted evacuations, destroyed multiple structures, and led to a week-long emergency response involving local, state, and federal agencies.
The fire began around 1:30 p.m. near the 8700 block of Lower Crabapple Road, approximately 11 miles north of Fredericksburg. Fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds, the blaze rapidly expanded, crossing State Highway 16 and threatening nearby communities. By the evening of March 15, the fire had grown to over 8,600 acres with 0% containment, prompting Gillespie County Judge Daniel Jones to issue a disaster declaration.
Evacuation orders were implemented for areas between Highway 16 North and Farm-to-Market Road 1631, and between Ranch Roads 1323 and 2721. Shelters were established at Faith Baptist Church and Zion Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg to accommodate displaced residents. Power outages were reported as utility companies preemptively cut electricity to affected zones to mitigate further risks.
Firefighting efforts were challenged by high winds and low humidity, conditions that led the National Weather Service to issue Red Flag Warnings across Central Texas. Despite these obstacles, containment steadily improved over the following days. By March 17, the fire was 65% contained, and by March 21, it reached full containment.
The wildfire destroyed nine homes—seven of which were occupied—and damaged two others. Additionally, 20 outbuildings were destroyed, and four sustained damage. One firefighter was injured by a falling tree limb during suppression efforts but was treated and released from the hospital.
The origin of the Crabapple Fire has been identified as a roadside ignition near Lower Crabapple Road, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
In response to the disaster, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved Fire Management Assistance Grants for the Crabapple Fire. These grants will reimburse up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs, providing critical support for local and state agencies involved in the response.
As recovery efforts commence, Gillespie County has partnered with the OneStar Foundation to establish the Crabapple Fire Relief Fund. This fund aims to provide emergency aid, essential supplies, and long-term recovery assistance to families affected by the wildfire.
Although the Crabapple Fire is fully contained, officials warn that the Texas Hill Country remains under critical fire danger due to ongoing drought conditions. Residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to burn bans to prevent future wildfires.
